Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendations for a 2013 Toyota Matrix

Question:

discourage use of a 1.25 to 2 adapter with this hitch? I have a 2013 toyota matrix and from this comment makes sense not to use the adapter as the increased length greatly reduces the tongue weight limit. Therefore should i go directly to a class 2 hitch, would that solve my issue . . . . i see many smaller vehicles in the reviews and how do they accomplish what i am trying to do?

asked by: Geoff C

Expert Reply:

If you want to go with a Class II hitch for your 2013 Toyota Matrix you can use # C12228. A Class II hitch still has a 1-1/4 inch receiver though so if you have a bike rack with a 2 inch shank that you wanted to use you would still need an adapter. But with a Class II hitch you can carry more than 2 bikes.

If you need to carry more than 2 bikes I recommend going with the Curt hitch listed above and a Class II compatible bike rack such as the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR. This bike rack has outstanding anti-sway cradles that hold the bikes at 3 points to keep them from making contact with each other as well as the vehicle.
It can tilt out to give you access to your cargo area, but only without bikes loaded. It folds up when not in use. I have linked a video review showing how it works.

The only caveat is that Curt also says you have to use stabilization strap # 18050 when using this hitch for any non-trailer load (such as a bike rack or cargo carrier) per their warranty requirements. I have linked a video showing how it works.

expert reply by: Michael H